ADHD Assessment in the UK
A thorough ADHD evaluation is usually an extensive process. A psychiatrist will determine whether your symptoms are causing significant impairment and will rule out other disorders like thyroid or depression. They may also request old school reports or other evidence.
It is essential that the person who is conducting your assessment is a specialist in ADHD. This is the case for GP's as well as consultant psychiatrists alike.
Waiting at various times
In the UK, adults who need an ADHD diagnosis are left waiting for years to get an appointment with psychiatrists. This is despite the fact that the condition is recognized as a serious mental health disorder and has profound impacts on people's lives. In certain areas, waiting time can be as long as four years. The charity ADHD UK called for urgent actions to improve the situation.
The problem is exacerbated by the growing awareness of this condition and the growing demand for treatment. NHS services are struggling to keep up with the demand, and a lot of patients are opting to seek treatment from private healthcare providers. This is made easier by the recent introduction of the Right to Choose scheme, which allows patients to select for private health care from any provider.
Psychiatry UK is one such service that offers an online ADHD assessment and medication for the NHS. The number of adults seeking an assessment has increased dramatically and is currently surpassing its capacity. Private psychiatrists are more adept in dealing with adults and are better able to recognize the subtleties of ADHD. They are more likely to have experience in managing co-morbidities like depression and anxiousness that can be a result of ADHD.
However, many are still concerned about the assessment of private patients and the risk of them over-diagnosing the condition. BBC Panorama exposed how some private clinics made diagnoses without following due process. Some have accused the program of inciting stigma and stereotypes against those with ADHD.
The BBC deserves to be praised, for exposing the issue and highlighting those who require an ADHD diagnosis. It's unfortunate that some people are forced to seek help privately. The NHS should find a way to address this issue. If you think you may have ADHD, try a free test with an organization or charity, or pay for a private psychiatrist to assess you. They're typically less expensive than the NHS, but will not provide the prescription for medication.
Second opinion
It is crucial to seek a diagnosis when you're experiencing symptoms of ADHD. A clear diagnosis will allow you to make the appropriate steps to manage your symptoms, including medication. You could also be directed to a psychiatrist for additional therapy. There are a variety of private clinics that offer diagnoses and titration services. These clinics are typically adept with the various types of adults who may have ADHD which includes women and men. They can also screen for co-morbidities such as depression and anxiety.
Private ADHD assessments can be costly, but they are usually more efficient than NHS waiting times. You typically pay for the initial assessment, and then schedule follow-up appointments if necessary. If you have insurance that covers you, it is likely to cover these appointments. These appointments will be conducted in a professional manner by nurses who are certified and have a specific interest in ADHD. Initial appointments typically involve clinical interviews and rating systems. You could be required to complete questionnaires and referred for additional tests, like an MRI.
A private clinic will cost you between PS500 and PS1,200 for an ADHD assessment. The cost covers the assessment time and titration costs. Some private ADHD assessments offer titration separately from diagnosis, and this can be cheaper. However, the process of titration can be longer and requires additional appointments.
The quality of private ADHD assessments has come under scrutiny after the BBC's Panorama investigation revealed that one patient sat for three years waiting for an NHS assessment before deciding to go to a private clinic to try and find. The BBC investigation exposed a number of cases where patients received a diagnosis of ADHD but were later taken off. This more info is problematic because it can be extremely distressing for people to be incorrectly diagnosed, and some of them have been prescribed medications that have negative side effects.
In Scotland, the cost of an ADHD assessment is PS1,335 and covers the initial assessment and titration. The majority of health insurance policies cover these tests. However, it's worthwhile to verify if you have coverage.
Referral to a specialist clinic
If your GP recommends an expert clinic, the physician will ask questions and perform an assessment of your clinical needs. They will determine if your symptoms are indicative of ADHD and if they are in line with the criteria for diagnosis. They will also look for co-morbidities, or any other mental health conditions. Most often, these are depression and anxiety. The clinician will discuss with you the treatment options, including medication if necessary.
During an assessment the psychiatrist will ask you about your family history and current issues at home and work. They will also ask about any medications you're taking. They will then conduct a structured interview. You should bring an experienced person or relative along to provide any additional information. It usually takes a few sessions for the assessment to determine a diagnosis. Some clinics will offer an extensive evaluation, whereas others will focus on specific symptoms.
The Panorama investigation into the poor provision of ADHD services in the NHS has brought the issue to light. The undercover reporter of the show was diagnosed with ADHD at three private clinics - but his GP insisted that he didn't have the condition. The BBC claimed that the report was an instance of "over-diagnosis" by private companies. However doctors are only able to refer patients for further investigation or prescribe medication in accordance with strict guidelines.
Many doctors are reluctant to sign an agreement for shared treatment with the NHS. This is the only way to transfer the treatment of their patients to the NHS following a private diagnosis. This is due to the fact that they believe that they're not experts in ADHD or psychiatry. Private psychiatrists are not the only ones who do not prescribe medications for their patients, which could make it difficult for patients to get the treatment they need.
Ask your GP to refer you to an ADHD assessment if they haven't already. You can find out the estimated waiting time by calling the local mental health services or using the Right To Choose website. The site allows you select an online ADHD assessment service that will be provided by NHS.
Confirmation of diagnosis
A diagnosis of ADHD can transform your life. Not only does it help individuals understand themselves better and their needs, but it also helps them and their family and friends better support them. It also assists them to identify the right treatment strategy. It's not always easy to get an assessment. In the UK patients have to wait for a long period of time for an NHS assessment. This can be a problem for many who are trying to determine if they are having ADHD.
If you're not able to wait, it's possible to request an assessment in private by a qualified specialist psychiatrist. You'll save time and avoid having to go to your GP. This is not a quick process and can take months however, it will provide you with more precise diagnosis than the NHS one. It is essential to make sure that the person running your assessment is a psychiatrist or psychologist, as these are the only healthcare professionals qualified to determine ADHD in the UK.
A private evaluation could involve an interview with a clinical psychologist or a psychiatrist. The doctor will ask questions about your mental health, childhood history and other factors. The doctor will utilize rating scales to inquire about your struggles at work, in school, or in relationships. They will also address any other symptoms you experience which could be indicative of ADHD.
The result will be an extensive ADHD assessment report that the psychiatrist will forward to your GP with your consent. They may also prescribe medication if needed. They can also assist you in obtaining other forms of assistance, such as studying skills and mentoring. They will also help with applying for Disabled Student Allowance if are a university student.
It's not a good idea to cut corners however, the NHS is overburdened and underfunded. Some people try to save money by using online assessments or private clinics with short appointments and lack of medical expertise. These shortcuts should be avoided. However, people with ADHD should be seeking a diagnosis even as long as they are able to afford it.